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10 Best Unlocked Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Cell Phone, 256GB AI Smartphone, Unlocked Android, AI Camera, Fast Processor, Long Battery Life, 2025, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Titanium Black

Operating System: One UI 7, Android 15
Display Size and Quality: 6.9 inches, 3040x1440 resolution
Battery Life: 5000mAh, fast and wireless charging
Camera Quality: AI system, Audio Eraser, portrait
Storage Capacity: 256 GB
Processor and RAM: Snapdragon processor, 12 GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, USB-C
Build Quality and Design: Titanium Black, water resistant

Chosen by 1326 this week

SAMSUNG Galaxy S25 Ultra Cell Phone, 512GB AI Smartphone, Unlocked Android, AI Camera, Fast Processor, Long Battery Life, 2025, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Titanium Gray

Operating System: One UI 7, Android 15
Display Size and Quality: 6.9 inches, 3200x1440 resolution
Battery Life: 5000 mAh, 37 hours talk time
Storage Capacity: 512 GB
Processor and RAM: Snapdragon 3.5 GHz, 12 GB RAM
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, USB-C
Build Quality and Design: Titanium Gray, Water Resistant, 7.7 oz

Motorola Moto G 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Sage Green

Operating System: Android 14
Display Size and Quality: 6.6 Inches, 1612x720, 120Hz
Camera Quality: 50MP, Macro Vision lens
Battery Life: 5000mAh
Storage Capacity: 128GB, expandable
Processor and RAM: Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, 4GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Vegan leather back, water resistant

Samsung Galaxy A16 5G A Series Cell Phone, Unlocked Android Smartphone, Large AMOLED Display, Durable Design, Super Fast Charging, Expandable Storage, US Version, 2025, Blue Black

Operating System: Android 14 with One UI
Display Size and Quality: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 1880x2340 resolution
Battery Life: Super fast charging
Camera Quality: Triple-lens system
Storage Capacity: 128 GB, expandable to 1.5TB
Processor and RAM: 2.4 GHz CPU, 4 GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, unlocked for all carriers
Build Quality and Design: IP54 rating, blue black color

Motorola Moto G - 2025 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Forest Gray

Operating System: Android 15
Display Size and Quality: 6.7", 120Hz, HD+ 1604x720
Battery Life: 5000mAh
Camera Quality: 50MP main, 16MP front
Storage Capacity: 128GB, expandable to 1TB
Processor and RAM: MediaTek Dimensity 6300, 4GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, jack
Build Quality and Design: Water-repellent vegan leather, Gorilla Glass

Google Pixel 9 Pro - Unlocked Android Smartphone with Gemini, Triple Rear Camera System, 24-Hour Battery, and 6.3" Super Actua Display - Hazel - 128 GB

Operating System: Android 14
Display Size and Quality: 6.3 in, 3040x1440 px, 120Hz
Battery Life: 24 hours
Camera Quality: Triple rear, 20x zoom, 8K video
Storage Capacity: 128 GB
Processor and RAM: CPU 3.1/2.6/1.92 GHz, 16 GB RAM
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Sleek, light, Hazel color, Slate

Google Pixel 9 - Unlocked Android Smartphone with Gemini, 24-Hour Battery, Advanced Camera, and 6.3" Actua Display - Obsidian - 128 GB

Operating System: Android 14
Display Size and Quality: 6.3-inch, 120 Hz
Camera Quality: 50 MP main, 48 MP ultrawide
Battery Life: 24-hour
Storage Capacity: 128 GB
Processor and RAM: 3.1 GHz, 12 GB RAM
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Sleek, obsidian finish

Motorola Moto G Play | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/64GB | 50MP Camera | Sapphire Blue

Operating System: Android 13.0
Display Size and Quality: 6.5 Inches, 1600 x 720, 90 Hz
Camera Quality: 50MP (12.5MP effective)
Battery Life: 5000mAh
Storage Capacity: 64GB, expandable to 1TB
Processor and RAM: Snapdragon 680, 4GB RAM
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Cellular
Build Quality and Design: Sleek matte finish, splash protection

Motorola Moto G Stylus - 2025 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/256GB | 50MP Camera | Pantone Gibraltar Sea

Operating System: Android 15
Display Size and Quality: 6.7", 2712x1220, pOLED, 120Hz
Battery Life: 5000mAh, all-day, fast charging
Camera Quality: 50MP Sony, optical stabilization
Storage Capacity: 256GB
Processor and RAM: 8GB RAM
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Vegan leather, military water/drop resistant

Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 8/256GB | 50MP Camera | Scarlet Wave

Operating System: Android 14
Display Size and Quality: 6.7-inch pOLED, 120 Hz
Camera Quality: 50MP Ultra Pixel with OIS
Battery Life: 5000mAh, 30W TurboPower charging
Storage Capacity: 256GB, expandable to 2TB
Processor and RAM: 8GB RAM with RAM Boost
Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, NFC
Build Quality and Design: Soft vegan leather, Scarlet Wave
How do we rank products for you?

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Cell Phone, 256GB AI Smartphone, Unlocked Android, AI Camera, Fast Processor, Long Battery Life, 2025, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Titanium Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,326
Battery Life
Camera Quality
Build Quality and Design

Most important from
1119 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life stands out with extended usage and rapid charging, especially when paired with a 45W charger.
Camera Quality
The phone delivers amazing photo quality with advanced camera features that impress even users of other models.
Build Quality and Design
Its robust metal frame and ergonomic design provide a sturdy feel while maintaining a comfortable grip despite its size.
Display Size and Quality
The large, vibrant display combined with a fast processor makes the device highly responsive and smooth for multitasking.
Processor and RAM
The large, vibrant display combined with a fast processor makes the device highly responsive and smooth for multitasking.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a powerful unlocked Android phone that offers top-tier performance and features ideal for users wanting a premium device without carrier restrictions. It runs the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, making the interface smooth and user-friendly. The large 6.9-inch display boasts a sharp 3040 x 1440 resolution, delivering vibrant and clear visuals perfect for watching videos or browsing. The 12GB RAM combined with a fast Snapdragon processor ensures smooth multitasking and quick app response. Storage is generous at 256GB, enough for plenty of apps, photos, and videos. Battery life stands out with a 5000mAh battery, which supports fast and wireless charging, likely lasting through a full day of heavy use.

The AI-enhanced camera system excels in capturing detailed photos and videos, especially with features like Audio Eraser to reduce background noise and advanced portrait settings that keep skin tones natural and clear. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and USB-C, supporting fast data and easy accessory connections. The phone’s build in titanium black gives it a sleek, modern look, and includes water resistance for added durability.

The phone is relatively large and heavier than some may prefer, which could affect one-handed use or pocket comfort. Also, while packed with features, the price point may be high for budget-conscious buyers. This makes the Galaxy S25 Ultra well-suited for users looking for a feature-rich, high-performance unlocked phone with excellent display, camera, and battery life, but those preferring a smaller or more affordable device might want to consider alternatives.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,326
Battery Life
Camera Quality
Build Quality and Design

Most important from
1119 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life stands out with extended usage and rapid charging, especially when paired with a 45W charger.
Camera Quality
The phone delivers amazing photo quality with advanced camera features that impress even users of other models.
Build Quality and Design
Its robust metal frame and ergonomic design provide a sturdy feel while maintaining a comfortable grip despite its size.
Display Size and Quality
The large, vibrant display combined with a fast processor makes the device highly responsive and smooth for multitasking.
Processor and RAM
The large, vibrant display combined with a fast processor makes the device highly responsive and smooth for multitasking.
#2

SAMSUNG Galaxy S25 Ultra Cell Phone, 512GB AI Smartphone, Unlocked Android, AI Camera, Fast Processor, Long Battery Life, 2025, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty, Titanium Gray

Rating
10.0
Camera Quality
Processor and RAM
Operating System

Most important from
1119 reviews

Camera Quality
The camera quality is outstanding, impressing even customers at a veterinary clinic and drawing requests for photos, showcasing its exceptional zoom and clarity.
Processor and RAM
The phone delivers more power than a one-year-old laptop, making even basic features feel impressive and providing endless customization and AI-driven capabilities.
Operating System
AI features, including the translation app and interactive assistants, add a fun and highly functional dimension to everyday use, enhancing the overall experience.
Connectivity
Data transfer and setup may require multiple attempts, indicating that initial device migration could be smoother despite the advanced technology.
Build Quality and Design
Protecting the device with a robust case and screen protector is recommended to safeguard the significant investment in this premium flagship.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a high-end unlocked Android smartphone featuring a large, sharp 6.9-inch display with a 3200 x 1440 resolution, delivering clear and vibrant visuals. It runs on the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, providing a modern and user-friendly experience. Powered by a Snapdragon processor clocked at 3.5 GHz and paired with 12 GB of RAM, it ensures smooth multitasking and fast app performance, suitable for demanding uses. The phone offers a substantial 512 GB of storage capacity, ideal for storing numerous photos, videos, and apps without space concerns.

Equipped with a strong 5000 mAh battery, the device supports up to 37 hours of talk time and includes fast and wireless charging capabilities, which is beneficial for extended usage. The AI-enhanced camera system includes features such as the Audio Eraser for clearer video recordings and advanced portrait modes that naturally adjust skin tones, making it excellent for photography enthusiasts. Connectivity options cover Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and USB-C, and the phone is water-resistant, adding durability to its sleek titanium gray design. It also comes with a stylus, useful for note-taking or precise touchscreen interactions.

Weighing 7.7 ounces and measuring nearly 0.32 inches thick, the phone is somewhat heavier and bulkier compared to other models, which may impact comfort for users preferring lighter devices. Additionally, as a premium flagship, it is likely priced on the higher side, which might not fit all budgets. For those seeking a future-proof, feature-rich unlocked phone with excellent camera and display quality capable of handling everyday tasks and creative work, this model is a strong contender. However, individuals prioritizing compactness or affordability may want to explore other options.

Rating
10.0
Camera Quality
Processor and RAM
Operating System

Most important from
1119 reviews

Camera Quality
The camera quality is outstanding, impressing even customers at a veterinary clinic and drawing requests for photos, showcasing its exceptional zoom and clarity.
Processor and RAM
The phone delivers more power than a one-year-old laptop, making even basic features feel impressive and providing endless customization and AI-driven capabilities.
Operating System
AI features, including the translation app and interactive assistants, add a fun and highly functional dimension to everyday use, enhancing the overall experience.
Connectivity
Data transfer and setup may require multiple attempts, indicating that initial device migration could be smoother despite the advanced technology.
Build Quality and Design
Protecting the device with a robust case and screen protector is recommended to safeguard the significant investment in this premium flagship.
#3

Motorola Moto G 5G | 2024 | Unlocked | Made for US 4/128GB | 50MP Camera | Sage Green

Rating
9.7
Display Size and Quality
Camera Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
2160 reviews

Display Size and Quality
The screen is bright, clear, and big enough for its size, with a refresh rate of 60Hz normally and 120Hz while scrolling.
Camera Quality
The 50MP camera, including a macro lens, delivers sharp photos, and the camera app is easy to use.
Battery Life
The battery life is phenomenal, lasting all day and often requiring charging only every other day.
Storage Capacity
The phone supports expandable storage with an SD card slot, allowing up to 1TB of additional space, which is rare among modern phones.

The Moto G 5G 2024 is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable yet functional unlocked cell phone. Running on Android 14, it offers the latest software features and enhancements. The 6.6-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, whether you're watching movies or playing games. The 1612x720 resolution might not be as sharp as some higher-end models, but it is still adequate for most users.

The 50MP camera system, which combines pixels for better light sensitivity, delivers impressive photos in various lighting conditions and includes a Macro Vision lens for close-up shots. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM, provides decent performance for everyday tasks and 5G connectivity for fast internet speeds where available. With 128GB of internal storage and the option to expand further with a microSD card, you won't run out of space quickly.

The 5000mAh battery is a standout feature, offering long usage times and fast charging capabilities, although the charger might be sold separately. Design-wise, the phone's vegan leather back gives it a premium feel while being practical and fingerprint resistant. Additional features like stereo speakers, water resistance, and dual SIM support add to its versatility. Weighing 194 grams, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle. While it may not match the power and camera capabilities of top-tier smartphones, the Moto G 5G 2024 provides excellent value for those looking for a reliable daily driver with modern features.

Rating
9.7
Display Size and Quality
Camera Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
2160 reviews

Display Size and Quality
The screen is bright, clear, and big enough for its size, with a refresh rate of 60Hz normally and 120Hz while scrolling.
Camera Quality
The 50MP camera, including a macro lens, delivers sharp photos, and the camera app is easy to use.
Battery Life
The battery life is phenomenal, lasting all day and often requiring charging only every other day.
Storage Capacity
The phone supports expandable storage with an SD card slot, allowing up to 1TB of additional space, which is rare among modern phones.

Buying Guide for the Best Unlocked Cell Phones

Choosing the right unlocked cell phone can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can find a device that perfectly suits your needs. Unlocked cell phones offer the flexibility to choose your carrier and plan, and they often come without the bloatware that carrier-locked phones have. When selecting an unlocked cell phone, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your lifestyle and usage habits.
Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) is the software that runs the phone and manages its functions. The two main options are Android and iOS. Android offers more customization and a wider range of devices, while iOS is known for its smooth user experience and tight integration with other Apple products. Choose Android if you prefer flexibility and customization, and iOS if you value simplicity and seamless integration with other Apple devices.
Display Size and QualityThe display size and quality determine how comfortable and enjoyable it is to use your phone. Display sizes typically range from around 5 inches to over 6.5 inches. Smaller screens are more portable and easier to handle with one hand, while larger screens are better for media consumption and multitasking. Display quality, measured in resolution (HD, Full HD, Quad HD, etc.), affects how sharp and clear the visuals are. Choose a size and resolution that match your usage habits, whether you prioritize portability or media viewing.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long your phone can operate before needing a recharge. It is usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). Higher mAh values generally mean longer battery life, but actual performance can vary based on usage and other factors. If you use your phone heavily for gaming, streaming, or multitasking, look for a phone with a larger battery capacity. For lighter use, a smaller battery may suffice.
Camera QualityCamera quality is crucial for those who love taking photos and videos. It is determined by factors like megapixel count, aperture size, and additional features like optical image stabilization and night mode. Higher megapixels can produce more detailed images, while larger apertures allow better low-light performance. Consider your photography needs—if you are a casual snapper, a mid-range camera will do, but if you are a photography enthusiast, look for advanced camera features.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity refers to the amount of internal space available for apps, photos, videos, and other data. Common options range from 32GB to 512GB or more. If you store a lot of media or install many apps, opt for higher storage capacity. Some phones also offer expandable storage via microSD cards, which can be a cost-effective way to increase space.
Processor and RAMThe processor and RAM determine the phone's performance and ability to handle multitasking. The processor (CPU) is the brain of the phone, and RAM is the memory that helps run apps smoothly. High-end processors and more RAM (typically 4GB to 12GB) provide better performance, especially for gaming and intensive applications. If you use your phone for basic tasks, a mid-range processor and moderate RAM will be sufficient.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include support for various network bands, Wi-Fi standards, Bluetooth versions, and other features like NFC. Ensure the phone supports the network bands used by your carrier for optimal performance. Advanced Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions offer better speed and connectivity. NFC is useful for contactless payments and quick pairing with other devices. Choose connectivity features based on your usage needs and carrier compatibility.
Build Quality and DesignBuild quality and design affect the phone's durability and aesthetic appeal. Materials like glass, metal, and plastic are commonly used. Glass and metal offer a premium feel but can be more fragile, while plastic is more durable but may feel less luxurious. Consider how the phone feels in your hand and its overall durability. If you prioritize a sleek design, opt for premium materials; if durability is more important, choose a sturdier build.

FAQ